'nPLAY Foundation

Gabe Kling's 3rd Annual Grom Comp

2011-06-30T13:22:00.001-07:00

Gabe Kling’s Annual Grom Comp took place on June 25th. 'nPLAY was proud to be a part of the event. Surfing is a great sport that kids of all ages can enjoy and Gabe Kling encouraged the kids to stay active and get out of the house and head to the beach. It is always awesome to see an athlete like Gabe come home to give back to his local community.

Keeper's of the Coast http://keepersofthecoast.org is an awesome organization that was a big part of the event. By donating to Keepers of the Coast, you will be contributing to their efforts in preserving our beaches and coastal wildlife. Please check them out.

Gabe Kling will be back on the Pro Tour headed to South Africa next and everyone at 'nPLAY wishes him the best!

Professional Athletes Team Up to Fight Childhood Obesity with Healthy Vending Machines

2010-10-28T06:02:00.000-07:00

Professional Athletes Team Up to Fight Childhood Obesity with Healthy Vending Machines

Olympic Gold Medalist Shannon Miller on Lifetime Television to promote Childhood Obesity Awareness

2010-10-13T08:51:00.000-07:00

Lifetime Television's Balancing Act guests on October 25th will include Olympic Gold Medal Gymnast Shannon Miller promoting Childhood Obesity Awareness, to inspire balanced, healthy living.

Online PR News – 12-October-2010 – Seven-time Olympic Medalist Shannon Miller will be on Lifetime Television's Balancing Act October 25 from 7:00-8:00 AM to promote childhood obesity awareness through the efforts of Shannon Miller Lifestyle, Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation, and 'nPLAY.

Miller states, “All kids yearn for a sense of control over their lives. So kids naturally feel energized when they realize that they have personal control over their eating and exercise habits. I look to the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation and 'nPLAY as a resource to teach children these basics of healthy living—calories in and calories out—and inspire them to live in this balanced way.”

Shannon Miller Lifestyle is a Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation Partner (http://www.healthyweightcommit.org/supporters/partners/), and Miller is on the Board of Governors for 'nPLAY (http://nplayfoundation.org/index.php/athletes/gymnastics/), along with other athlete supporters such as Grant Hill, Jennie Finch, Evander Holyfield, Summer Sanders, and Johnny Weir.

ABOUT SHANNON MILLER

Shannon Miller is the only American to rank among the Top 10 All-Time Gymnasts and is the only female athlete to be inducted into the US Olympic Hall of Fame twice (Individual 2006 and Team 2008). Among her career highlights, Miller has won an astounding 59 International and 49 National competition medals, over half of which are Gold. She is the only US gymnast to win two World All-Around Titles. Her tally of five medals (two Silver, three Bronze) at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, Spain was the most medals won by a US athlete. At the 1996 Games in Atlanta, GA, she led the “Magnificent Seven” to the US Women’s first ever Team Gold and for the first time for any American gymnast, she captured Gold on the balance beam.

Miller is now President of Shannon Miller Lifestyle: Health and Fitness for Women, as well as an author, television personality, and host of Shannon Miller Lifestyle Radio presented by St. Vincent's HealthCare. She holds a BBA in marketing and entrepreneurship from the University of Houston and her law degree from Boston College. She founded the Shannon Miller Foundation dedicated to fighting childhood obesity and is Co-Chair of the Florida Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness.

Miller continues to travel the country as a highly sought after motivational speaker and advocate for the health and wellness of women and children. Shannon and her husband welcomed their first child John “Rocco” on October 28th, 2009.

ABOUT SHANNON MILLER LIFESTYLE

The mission of Shannon Miller Lifestyle is to inform, educate, and inspire women to lead a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Through books, DVDs, motivational speaking, a weekly call-in radio show, and website ShannonMillerLifestyle.com, Shannon focuses on opening the lines of communication and reminding women that it is okay to ask questions, demand answers, support each other and have fun along the way. Shannon Miller Lifestyle is targeted to women with a focus on pregnancy and motherhood.

ABOUT HEALTHY WEIGHT COMMITMENT FOUNDATION

The Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation is a first-of-its kind coalition that brings together over 120 retailers, food and beverage manufacturers, sporting goods and insurance companies, restaurants, a professional sports association, trade associations, NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations), and the U.S. Army. The Foundation focuses on activities in the schools, the workplace and the marketplace to promote healthy weight among Americans by balancing the energy they consume with the energy they expend through physical activity.

ABOUT 'nPLAY FOUNDATION

‘nPLAY is a peer-to-peer movement in which one athlete asks another to help, building membership and momentum. The organization’s initial focus is to help schools meet the criteria of the Healthier US Schools Challenge. ‘nPLAY and the USDA-Food Nutrition Services are in the process of developing a partnership that will focus on increasing the time dedicated to physical activity/education in targeted schools.

ABOUT THE BALANCING ACT ON LIFETIME TELEVISION

The Balancing Act TV show airs on Lifetime Television at 7:00am (ET/PT) - and is America’s premier morning show that’s about women, for women, and trusted by women. Celebrating life and all there is to accomplish, The Balancing Act inspires and empowers with entertaining and educational segments, placing women in the best position to achieve success in every area of their lives. For information or to view a show, visit http://www.TheBalancingAct.com.

SHANNON MILLER LIFESTYLE PRODUCTS

Shannon Miller Lifestyle products currently available at http://www.ShannonMillerLifestyle.com and
http://www.amazon.com (keyword: Shannon Miller Lifestyle):

Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation, 'nPLAY: New Partnership Launched to Promote Physical Activity Among Young Americans

2010-09-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation, 'nPLAY: New Partnership Launched to Promote Physical Activity Among Young Americans

West Virginia Physical Activity Symposium with Shannon Miller by Eric cohen of 'nPLAY

2010-07-27T04:55:00.000-07:00

Last month I had the honor of going to the West Virginia Physical Activity Symposium with Shannon Miller, one of the athletes working with ‘nPLAY. The purpose of the event was to gather all of the important stakeholders in West Virginia, as well as many important national figures, to address the obesity issue throughout the state.

I spent two days there and I was unbelievably impressed with everyone I met; starting with the top players of the state. Governor Joe Manchin and his wife Gayle are two of the most genuine, down to earth and committed people I have met in an extremely long time. In an era where there is tremendous skepticism regarding politicians and their motives, I left West Virginia with hope that there are more individuals like them coming to the forefront of American politics. Their desire to help all of the citizens of West Virginia become healthier was phenomenal. Mrs. Manchin in particular is the kind of individual that inspires you to go the extra mile to help them accomplish their goals.

I must give credit to Eloise Elliot, a member of the ‘nPLAY education advisory board, who put together a phenomenal event. I know she is taking a well deserved break right now.

Then there was Shannon Miller. We are blessed at ‘nPLAY to have intelligent, dedicated athletes who truly care about the future of America’s children. While I expected nothing less, Shannon exuded class and integrity every single minute she was there and is an exceptional role model for young girls. This is evident in how she physically takes care of herself, and how she lives her life. Her speech was excellent and a highlight of the symposium. I can’t thank Shannon enough for her time and work with ‘nPLAY. We wish her tremendous success as she launches Shannon Miller Lifestyle for Women, www.shannonmillerlifestyle.com..

We also were fortunate to add Phil Pfister, former Strongest Man in the World, to the ‘nPLAY family. A native son of West Virginia, his speech was inspiring and we are excited to have him come aboard.

We are looking forward to working in West Virginia and helping the children of the state. I want to thank Mrs. Manchin, Eloise Elliot and everyone else for their hospitality. I look forward to all that we can accomplish in the future.

Grant Hill of 'nPLAY

2010-06-28T06:50:00.000-07:00

'nPLAY, Kenny Anderson & BeActive NC team up for Pepsi Refresh Challenge!

2010-06-15T18:12:00.000-07:00

Jay Fiedler of 'nPLAY Foundation

2010-06-15T18:09:00.000-07:00

Shannon Miller of 'nPLAY Foundation

2010-06-15T18:08:00.000-07:00

RxCut® and 'nPLAY Prescription Savings and Combating Childhood Obesity

2010-06-10T07:25:00.001-07:00

If you print and cut out the card above and use it you will not only enjoy savings but help ‘nPLAY combat childhood obesity in the United States.

To Whom It May Concern,

As Athletes, we are concerned about our country’s health crisis and future children and we are finding ways to save money and reduce childhood obesity. During these hard economic times, we feel it is necessary for us to assist you with the latest solution in maintaining you and your family’s health. We have finally found an excellent savings program where this is possible. Whether you are uninsured or underinsured, ‘nPLAY is providing access to a FREE discount card where it gives you the opportunity to be healthy and save up to 75% on your prescriptions and up to 50% on labs and imaging. Every time the card is used a donation of $.50 up to $10 will be paid to the ‘nPLAY organization to help fight childhood obesity A healthy body creates a healthy mind. Come and join us in maintaining the best health you ever imagined.

If you cut out the card above and use it you will not only enjoy savings but help ‘nPLAY combat childhood obesity in the United States.

Go to www.nplayrx.com for more information. If you would like hard copy cards please send requests to mike@nplayfoundation.org. Please visit www.nplayfoundation.org for more information on our organization.

Sincerely,

Michael Maccia
President & Founder
www.nplayfoundation.org
www.twitter.com/nPLAYFOUNDATION
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=87892814752

RxCut® and 'nPLAY Prescription Savings and Combating Childhood Obesity

2010-06-07T14:26:00.000-07:00

RxCut® Plus recognizes, in these tough economic times, millions of people are struggling with healthcare costs. We are sponsoring a FREE program offering up to 75% discounts on prescription medications, laboratory tests and imaging services. RxCut® Plus is committed to help all those in need of this valuable FREE benefit. Everyone qualifies. No Enrollment required. In order to begin saving at the pharmacy print the card below and take it with your prescription to a participating pharmacy.

Every time the card is used 'nPLAY receives a donation. GO TO

* No enrollment fees
* Everyone qualifies
* All cards are active
* No activation or enrollment
* Unlimited uses
* Never expires
* Works for all FDA approved prescription medications
Why do we offer this service?

Free For All is concerned about the rising costs of healthcare affecting over 50 million people in America and we are offering FREE access to savings of up to 75% off prescriptions. If you fall into any of these categories, the RxCut® Plus program is extremely beneficial to you:

* Uninsured
If you don’t have health insurance, the RxCut® Plus program gives you free access to savings on prescriptions and tests that can save your life.
* Undersinsured
If your current insurance doesn’t cover certain prescriptions or tests, use the RxCut® Plus card to access those discounted medications and testing services.
* High-Deductible
You can use the RxCut® Plus card to save on out-of-pocket costs until you’ve reached your deductible threshold.
* Medicare Doughnut Hole
Use the RxCut® Plus card to maximize your savings during this difficult period when you are left without Medicare Part D coverage.

What is a prescription savings card?

Prescription savings cards (also known as "consumer cards", "point of sale cards" and "100% co-pay cards") allow prescription medication users to save money on their prescription medications. At the time of purchase, cardholders simply present their RxCut® Plus Card at a participating pharmacy to instantly receive savings on their medications.

How do prescription savings cards work?

When the RxCut® Plus card information (RxGroup# and RxBin#) is entered into the pharmacy’s computer system, the price on the prescription is discounted based on the pharmacy’s agreement with RxCut® Plus. This type of cutting-edge technology allows for a seamless transaction process.

What is the cost of this program?

There is no cost to this program. The RxCut® Plus card provides free access to savings of up to 75% off the typical price of prescription medications.

I am not a U.S. Citizen, can I use the card?

Everyone may use the card if it is used at any of the 54,000 participating pharmacies in our network in the US or Puerto Rico, or if the prescriptions are purchased through our mail order system.

I already have insurance or Medicare that covers my prescription medications. How can the RxCut® Plus Card benefit me?

This program can be used to obtain savings on prescription medications that are excluded by your insurance plan or are not covered because you have exceeded your insurance plan's maximum limits. In some instances, you might find that the RxCut® Plus program price is lower than your insurance plan's co-payment amount. (For instance, if your insurance plan generic co-payment is $30.00 and your generic medication through the RxCut® Plus program is $18.00, you would use the RxCut® Plus card instead of your insurance card. Please keep in mind you can not use your insurance card and RxCut® Plus card at the same time. You need to choose one or the other when you leave your prescription at the pharmacy). In addition, if your plan does not offer you a prescription card and you are reimbursed after each transaction, you may be able to use the card to lower your out-of-pocket expenses. Contact your insurance provider to see if they accept paper claims. If they do accept paper claims, then you may submit the claim to your insurance carrier and apply the credit towards your deductible.

Where can I use the RxCut® Plus card?

Your card is valid at 54,000 pharmacies nationwide. Most chain pharmacies and many independent pharmacies have been given equal opportunity to serve you through our program. Additional pharmacies are constantly being recruited, and our pharmacy directory is continually updated. Simply use the Pharmacy Locator provided on this website to locate a participating pharmacy near you.

BEST PART IS EVERYTIME A CARD IS USED 'nPLAY receives a DONATION Print one and start saving and helping 'nPLAY combat childhood obesity.

'nPLAY, Grant Hill & BeActive NC team up for Pepsi Refresh Challenge!

2010-06-04T06:31:00.000-07:00

Johnny Weir of 'nPLAY www.nplayfoundation.org

2010-06-03T05:09:00.000-07:00

Just Push 'nPLAY- Provide nearly 20K kids with daily physical activity

2010-06-01T09:47:00.000-07:00

Girls Softball Night with Jennie Finch. San Francisco Giants v. Colorado Rockies JUNE 2

2010-05-29T17:20:00.000-07:00

Girls Softball Night with Jennie Finch

Wednesday, June 2 - vs. Colorado Rockies

Join Jennie Finch and the San Francisco Giants for Girl's Softball Night 2010! Your special event ticket package includes a limited-edition Jennie Finch bobblehead, a pregame Q&A session with Jennie Finch in Scoreboard Plaza, and a seat in the girl's softball section of the ballpark.

Each group who brings in 25 or more people will receive one (1) autographed bobblehead signed by Jenne Finch. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Jennie Finch's n'PLAY Foundation, whose mission is to financially support physical education and activity programs in low income areas with the highest rates of childhood obesity.

So grab your families, rally your teammates, and bring your friends out to the ballpark to help cheer on the Giants to a victory over the Colorado Rockies!

'nPLAY Athlete's Video on Livestream

2010-05-21T13:39:00.001-07:00

Watch live streaming video from nplayfoundation at livestream.com

Gabe Kling ASP Surfing

2010-05-18T06:33:00.001-07:00

Gabe Kling Wins ASP PRIME 6.0 Lowers Pro, Andrew Doheny Takes Oakley Pro Junior

LOWER TRESTLES, California/USA (Saturday, May 8, 2010) - Gabe Kling (St. Augustine, FL), 29, has the ASP PRIME 6.0 Lowers Pro over ASP Dream Tour No. 13 Chris Davidson (AUS), 33, in two-to-four foot (1 metre) surf at the famed cobblestone pointbreak of Lower Trestles after the world's finest surfers pushed the performance barriers of competitive surfing throughout the entire week of competition while reveling in the firing south swell. Andrew Doheny (Newport Beach, CA), 17, clinched the biggest win of his career when he won the ASP Grade-2 Oakley Pro Junior.

The shift to the ASP One World Rating attracted more than 30 ASP Dream Tour competitors and the globe's hottest up-and-coming surfers to the iconic pointbreak of Lower Trestles while the ASP Pro Junior competitors flocked to the Oakley Pro Junior to gather points towards their regional ratings in an attempt to qualify for the inaugural ASP World Junior Tour.

Kling quietly navigated his way through the early rounds of competition before gaining momentum in the final day of action. The Floridian talent unleashed a furious backhand attack on the Lowers lefthanders and combined his heats with a repertoire of powerful carves and rail gouges on his forehand to eliminate current ASP Dream Tour No. 2 Jordy Smith (ZAF), 22, in the Quarterfinals, and former three-time ASP World Champion Andy Irons (Hanalei, HI), 31, in the Semifinals before taking out the 6.0 Lowers Pro title over Davidson.

"There were no easy heats out there and I felt like I just kept squeaking it through," Kling said. "I didn't even win a heat until it went to man-on-man. I kind of peaked at the right time and had a lot of luck on my side. This is the biggest win of my career."

The Floridian regular-footer's 6.0 Lowers Pro win will help to catapult Kling to the higher rung of the ASP One World Ratings, substantially helping his chances of qualification for next year's ASP Dream Tour.

"This gives me so much confidence with 35 of the 45 guys from the tour here," Kling said. "It's huge for me, this is definitely the biggest win of my career. This is Lowers with the best guys and this win is just huge."

The ASP PRIME victory was especially sweet for Kling, as today's win comes after a full rehabilitation from a severe knee injury sustained in the ning of the 2009 season which sidelined the standout competitor for eight of the 10 events on the 2009 ASP World Tour.

"Last year's injury adds to this win," Kling said. "I was out for eight months and sitting on the couch and watching everyone surf when it was my year on tour, it was a pretty disappointing year for me. The injury makes this win that much sweeter."

Davidson, who posted some of the event's highest scores throughout 6.0 Lowers Pro competition with lightning fast surfing and massive gouges and fins-free turns, won every heat leading up to his Final matchup against Kling, but was unable to find a rhythm in their bout and finished runner-up.

"I'm not disappointed with my performance, but I'm a little disappointed with the way that I played out the Final," Davidson said. "I shouldn't have let him have that one left and I shouldn't have gone on that little right and then he got that bomb. I was just out of rhythm and didn't really play a smart final, but all compliments to Gabe. He surfed really well on the waves that he got. I knew it was going to be tough and I'm stoked to make the Final."

The wily Australian has kicked off his 2010 ASP Dream Tour campaign in strong form and feels that his Final appearance at this year's 6.0 Lowers Pro is only going to add to his momentum after such inspirational surfing displayed by his fellow competitors throughout the week.

"I've been feeling really good this year," Davidson said. "I've got a couple of ninths and just to come to America, there is so much talent here, it's good to come here and make the Final against all of these guys after everyone was ripping so hard all week. I'm just trying to take the good out of it and I'm psyched to move on."

Andy Irons (Hanalei, HI), 31, who is a former three-time ASP World Champion, dispensed amazing performances heat-after-heat, but stumbled in the Semifinals against Kling after breaking his board in the early minutes of their bout and was unable to recover throughout their heat. Irons finished equal third overall.

"I knew it was going to be a good heat," Irons said. "Gabe (Kling) has been having a good contest, he took Jordy (Smith) out in the last round and I knew he wasn't going to be a slouch. As soon as my board broke, it just kind of broke my whole deal. That's my board that has gotten me back into a good rhythm and when it broke, I kind of felt like my dreams got crushed right there and it was kind of hard to pick myself back up."

Irons, who is currently competing as a full-time competitor on the ASP Dream Tour after a one-year sabbatical, looked at his impressive finish at Lowers as a step in the right direction to help build his momentum as the ASP World Title Race season progresses.

"I haven't made more than three heats in about two years, so to make the Semifinals, that's a great result for me," Irons said. "Although I would have liked to be in the final, I'm going to walk away from the beach psyched and it's a great result before going into J-Bay."

Doheny clinched the Oakley Pro Junior, his first ASP Pro Junior victory, over a stacked final field including reigning ASP North America Pro Junior Series Champion Nat Young (Santa Cruz, CA), 18, Dylan Goodale (Kauai, HI), 19, and Tyler Newton (Kauai, HI), 19, with an impressive 17.10 out of 20 heat total after moving through an elite early round field including current ASP Dream Tour surfer Jadson Andre (BRA), 20, and reigning ASP World Junior Champion Maxime Huscenot (REU), 19.

"I don't even know what to say, this doesn't feel real," Doheny said. "I hope it's not a dream. This was the hardest draw because there were so many good international guys competing. It's been an awesome event and it's been inspiring to see all of the top pros like Andy (Irons) surfing."

The impressive victory posted by Doheny catapults the young Newport Beach native to second overall on the ASP North America Pro Junior Series, increasing his chances towards qualification for this year's ASP World Junior Tour.

"Hopefully this puts me in good position for the rest of the year," Doheny said. "I really want to qualify for the World Junior Tour, so hopefully it's on. I'm going to try my best."

For 6.0 Lowers Pro and Oakley Pro Junior highlights log on to www.nike6lowerspro.com

For additional ASP information log on to www.aspworldtour.com or www.aspnorthamerica.org

6.0 Lowers Pro Final Results:
1 - Gabe Kling (USA) 16.50
2 - Chris Davidson (AUS) 11.77

6.0 Lowers Pro Semifinals Results:
SF 1: Chris Davidson (AUS) 14.93 def. Adriano de Souza (BRA) 14.53
SF 2: Gabe Kling (USA) 12.86 def. Andy Irons (HAW) 12.64

6.0 Lowers Pro Quarterfinals Results:
QF 1: Adriano de Souza (BRA) 16.27 def. Heitor Alves (BRA) 8.44
QF 2: Chris Davidson (USA) 14.93 def. Adrian Buchan (AUS) 13.40
QF 3: Andy Irons (HAW) 18.57 def. C.J. Hobgood (USA) 11.93
QF 4: Gabe Kling (USA) 16.50 def. Jordy Smith (ZAF) 15.77

6.0 Lowers Pro Round of 16 Results:
Heat 1: Adriano de Souza (BRA) 13.77 def. Alejo Muniz (BRA) 13.33
Heat 2: Heitor Alves (BRA) 14.43 def. Nic Muscroft (AUS) 12.00
Heat 3: Chris Davidson (AUS) 13.06 def. Sebastian Zietz (HAW) 7.50
Heat 4: Adrian Buchan (AUS) 13.90 def. Jadson Andre (BRA) 12.17
Heat 5: Andy Irons (HAW) 13.33 def. Owen Wright (AUS) 12.60
Heat 6: C.J. Hobgood (USA) 13.94 def. John John Florence (HAW) 8.40
Heat 7: Gabe Kling (USA) 12.90 def. Cory Lopez (USA) 10.60
Heat 8: Jordy Smith (ZAF) 12.67 def. Josh Kerr (AUS) 12.10

Oakley Pro Junior Final Results:
1 - Andrew Doheny (USA) 17.10
2 - Nat Young (USA) 15.40
3 - Dylan Goodale (HAW) 14.17
4 - Tyler Newton (HAW) 13.60

Oakley Pro Junior Semifinals Results:
SF 1: Nat Young (USA) 17.33, Tyler Newton (HAW) 12.33, Evan Thompson (USA) 10.44, Conner Coffin (USA) 10.34
SF 2: Dylan Goodale (HAW) 16.46, Andrew Doheny (USA) 14.84, Evan Geiselman (USA) 14.83, Kiron Jabour (HAW) 8.53

'nPLAY Mypyramid.gov Partner

2010-05-17T08:59:00.000-07:00

‘nPLAY will create educational visuals that integrate athletes with nutritional messages that can be used in schools and community group gatherings.

The Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, an organization of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, was established in 1994 to improve the nutrition and well-being of Americans. Toward this goal, the Center focuses its efforts on two primary objectives:

1. Advance and promote dietary guidance for all Americans, and
2. Conduct applied research and analyses in nutrition and consumer economics.

The Center's core products to support its objectives are the following:

* Dietary Guidelines for Americans
* MyPyramid Food Guidance System
* Healthy Eating Index
* U.S. Food Plans
* Nutrient Content of the U.S. Food Supply
* Expenditures on Children by Families

For more information on CNPP, or to get more information on these products, please visit www.cnpp.usda.gov.

Follow MyPyramid on
MyPyramid on Twitter

Gabe Klings Grom Comp 'nPLAY

2010-05-17T08:58:00.001-07:00

Gabe Kling wins Nike 6.0 Congrats!!!!!!!

2010-05-12T08:37:00.001-07:00

'nPLAY PSA

2010-05-12T08:30:00.000-07:00

1st Lady:Fruits & Exercise For Kids To Fight Fat

2010-05-12T08:26:00.000-07:00

Paul Pierce Move of the Day in the Playoffs

2010-04-28T14:26:00.001-07:00

Cuties Bid 'n Buy Skates autographed by Olympian and world-class skaters like Johnny Weir, Rachael Flatt, Dorothy Hamill, Melissa Gregory, Keauna McLa

2010-04-07T07:29:00.000-07:00

Cuties is auctioning off 2 individual Cuties embroidered figure skates from the “Ice Dreams” skating spectacular on April 1, 2010 in Bensenville, IL. The skates are autographed by Olympian and world-class skaters like Johnny Weir, Rachael Flatt, Dorothy Hamill, Melissa Gregory, Keauna McLaughlin, Rockne Brubaker, Alexe Gilles and Jordan Moeller. Click on the auction items below to see which specific skaters have signed each skate. All auction proceeds will go to ‘nPLAY. We’re auctioning each skate separately so 2 folks can treasure the sweet keepsake!

‘nPLAY is a coalition of elite athletes from eight different sports, led by Boston Celtics forward Paul Pierce, whose goal is to raise funds to fight children’s obesity. A government tax exempt 501(c)3 organization, ‘nPLAY’s primary focus is to financially support physical education and physical activity programs in low income areas which statistically suffer the highest rates of childhood obesity in the United States.

Bid 'n Buy An Autographed Cuties' Skate for 'nPLAY

2010-04-05T20:09:00.000-07:00

Paul Pierce Captains Team of Superstar Athletes to Fight Childhood Obesity ‘nPLAY teams athletes from different sports to combat national crisis

2010-03-02T19:55:00.000-08:00

New York, N.Y. – Boston Celtics forward, Paul Pierce will lead, a coalition of elite athletes from eight different sports to raise funds to fight children’s obesity in an effort called ‘nPLAY. A government tax exempt 501(c)3 organization, ‘nPLAY’s primary focus is to financially support physical education and physical activity programs in low income areas which statistically suffer the highest rates of childhood obesity in the United States.

’nPLAY will further partner with local governments and community organizations throughout the United States to help implement its programs in and outside of school.

Pierce’s leadership is bolstered by input from other sports standouts that include: Jennie Finch (USA Softball); Grant Hill (NBA’s Phoenix Suns); Evander Holyfield (retired boxer); and Summer Sanders (USA Swimming).

“It’s no secret that I was chubby as a child, so I understand the challenges our children face,” Pierce said. “Athletics and proper nutrition helped me turn my life around and achieve my dreams. At ‘nPLAY we are committed to providing opportunities for children that they may otherwise not have, to be active and eat healthy. We want to help educate both children and parents on the importance of living a healthy lifestyle so we can bring about change.”

One out of three children in America is obese, and childhood obesity was recently cited as parents’ No. 1 concern. It has a direct affect on cancer, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease and up to 10 other medical conditions. It is the primary reason that the current generation of children will be the first ever to expect a life shorter than their parents.

”As a mother, nothing is more important to me than the health of my son,” said Finch, an Olympic softball gold medalist. “As parents, we are responsible for our children’s future. It’s important for us to not only set an example but to educate and motivate our children to live healthy lifestyles that will afford them the same opportunities of past generations.”

Finch will be one of the athletes involved in a partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) MyPyramid program, ’nPLAY’s main nutrition initiative. MyPyramid was created by the USDA’s Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP) to deliver messages that promote healthy food and lifestyle choices. ‘nPLAY will create educational visuals that integrate athletes with nutritional messages that can be used in schools and community group gatherings.

‘nPLAY was established by career marketers who set out to collaborate with standout athletes to provide solutions and raise money for programs that help combat childhood obesity. Organization founders include: Michael Maccia, Eric Cohen, Scott Hunter Smith and Steve Conner.

Pierce, nicknamed “The Truth” and is the founder of the “The Truth Fund”, is also working with Olympic gold medal gymnast Shannon Miller, US Olympic figure skater Johnny Weir, current and former NBA players Jerry Stackhouse, Kenny Anderson and Bo Kimble; ASP World Tour Surfers Taylor Knox and Gabe Kling; former NFL players Jay Fiedler and Sam Madison; retired No. 1 middleweight boxer Michael Olajide Jr. and Former USA Olympic softball player and current assistant coach, Barbara Jordan.

Twitter: www.twitter.com/nPLAYFOUNDATION :
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/nplayfoundation
Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=87892814752
Facebook Fan: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=87892814752#!/pages/nPLAYFoundation/324738916373?ref=ts

Gabe Kling - Jacksonville Jaguar Honorary Captain

2010-01-17T20:03:00.000-08:00

Gabe Kling was named official honorary captain of the National Football Leagues, Jacksonville Jaguars for their last home game of the season against the Oakland Raiders on Sunday, December 23rd 2008. The game was played at the Jacksonville Municipal Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida in front of 76,000 screaming Jaguar fans! Kling, who is a life-long Jags fan took the field along with the official team captains from both teams and flip the coin, which determines the game’s opening kickoff.

We are proud to have your support.

http://www.softballwest.com/ USA softball's Jennie Finch raises funds for nPlay Foundation

2010-01-17T18:47:00.000-08:00

The nPLAY Foundation, a nationwide organization dedicated to helping reverse the rate of childhood obesity in the United States has announced that USA Softball superstar Jennie Finch has committed to help raise funds for the organization by teaming up with MyCelebritees—a one-of-a-kind company that partners with celebrities to support charities through the sales of unique apparel.
Finch has an ongoing partnership with nPLAY, and sees MyCelebritees as the ideal way to supplement the donations she already makes to the group. Finch designed a T-shirt based on her personal motto—“Dream and Believe”—that is now available to the public via www.mycelebritees.com. Twenty-five percent of all sales of the shirt will be donated to nPLAY to help support the organization’s mission.
“We are thrilled to know that Jennie has chosen our organization as the beneficiary for her partnership with MyCelebritees,” said Michael Maccia, Founder of nPLAY. “Jennie has been wonderful about her support of our group for some time, and this is yet another effort on her behalf to help make a difference in the lives of America’s youth. It is truly amazing to know that she is committed to helping inspire, motivate and give back to our organization.”
“This cause is a very important one, and I am honored to help the nPLAY foundation achieve its goals,” said Finch. “I strongly encourage everyone to support this wonderful group by visiting mycelebritees.com and picking up a ‘Dream and Believe’ shirt for themselves or a loved one.”

Does a Link Exist Between Obesity and Asthma?

2009-12-02T20:20:00.000-08:00

By Clement A. Maccia, M.D.

Each of these disorders has a significant public health impact and most recently there has been significant literature suggesting the association between the two. Childhood obesity has become a significant problem in the United States along with the increase in asthma. In addition to the asthma epidemic there is an obesity epidemic in the United States. Statistics reveal that one third of all 16-year-old children in the United States are overweight, and 15% are obese. Studies indicate an increased prevalence of asthma in the obese. Possible explanations are that there is a decrease in exercise in these individuals however longitudinal studies have shown that obesity predates the development of asthma. Epidemiological data reveals the impact of obesity on asthma is much stronger in females than males. The incident of asthma after age 11 years is 5 to 7 times higher in females who are obese versus lean females. No such relationship exists for males.

The relationship between obesity and asthma is reasonably clear, however the relationship between obesity and airway responsiveness is not clear. It is possible that in- utero events are contributing to the relationship between obesity and asthma in children. Low birthweight is known to be associated with an increased incidence of asthma and high birthweight is associated with a higher subsequent incidence of obesity. There is very little information in regards to maternal caloric intake during pregnancy and hyperinsulinemia during pregnancy on the development of obesity.

The systemic inflammatory state in obesity can lead to metabolic and cardiovascular complications. It is not known positively whether this inflammatory environment alters asthma risk or phenotype. Most of literature has concentrated on the effect of leptin, a hormone produced by adipocytes which increases basal metabolic rate and signals the brain that the individual has reached satiety. Animal studies have indicated that airway inflammatory response to both allergenic and nonallergenic exposures is enhanced by both endogenous and exogenous leptin. Studies have shown in humans a modest overall incidence of asthma and prevalence in the obese, although body mass index does not appear to be a significant modifier of asthma severity.

Asthma and obesity are common conditions and both are major public health problems. Obesity appears to increase the risk of asthma and both conditions may share common genetic and environmental causes. There are mechanical, developmental, hormonal, signal transduction, and immunological reasons for their effects. Ongoing research including genetic understanding of these complex traits and elucidation of genes to specific asthma phenotypes should enhance our understanding of the common genetic basis of these disorders.

Yes, there is an association between the two, however a many studies and questions must be answered before we can directly relate obesity and asthma.

Clement A. Maccia MD

Dr. Maccia is Board certified in Pediatrics and Allergy and Immunology. Presently he is Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Dr. Maccia is the Director of the Allergy Clinic. He is the author of numerous articles and has been selected for the past eight years into the Best Doctors in the New York-New Jersey Metropolitan Area by Castle Connolly. In 2007, he was included in the edition Top Doctors in the New York Metro Area.

He was elected by the residents in Medicine and Pediatrics at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School for a teaching award in 2001and in 2005 for his excellence as a clinician, teacher and role model. Dr. Maccia was Chief of Pediatrics at Muhlenberg Regional Medical Center, an affiliate of UMDNJ- Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, from 1991-1999.

He presently serves on the Medical Advisory Board of ‘nPLAY A Childhood Obesity Foundation (www.nplayfoundation.org). In addition, he serves on the Board of Governors for Conventus Medical Malpractice Insurance Company. In the past he served on the Board of Governors for Muhlenberg Hospital and the Solaris Health System.

For more information or questions please feel free to write to clement.maccia@gmail.com.

A Message from Jennie Finch

2009-11-21T18:50:00.000-08:00

A Mesage from 'nPLAY Board Member Jennie Finch

http://nplayfoundation.org/video/

2009-11-19T07:25:00.000-08:00

People need to focus on the problem of childhood obesity itself to make sure that the problems of child obesity are solved.

This is why ‘nPLAY was formed. On a daily basis we read to each other alarming facts about childhood obesity like the following:

1 in 3 children are obese
Physical consequences of childhood obesity include: increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, asthma, and trouble sleeping
According to a Harvard University study, this generation of children is currently is the first generation with a life expectancy that may be shorter than their parents

After doing some research, one of our Founders pulled up a quote James Baldwin made at the 2003 California Child Obesity Conference. Mr. Baldwin stated, “Children have never been very good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them.” We at ‘nPLAY couldn’t agree more and that is why we are so proud to be led by amazing athletes from a variety of sports that can offer to the youth of America examples of how to stay fit while having fun.

So here is what ‘nPLAY is. ‘nPLAY is a childhood obesity movement driven by the professional athletes of America. Led by Chairman Paul Pierce, star athletes such as Jennie Finch, Grant Hill, Nastia Liukin, Jerry Stackhouse, Evander Holyfield, Johnny Weir, Cullen Jones, Summer Sanders, Jay Fielder and Kenny Anderson have all teamed up to help provide every child with the opportunity to stay healthy and fit while having fun. ‘nPLAY has put together an amazing Board of professionals from a variety of industries. In addition, our Advisory Boards are comprised of doctors, educators, and fitness trainers that all are decorated in their own fields and dedicated to our mission. We thank each of them for supporting ‘nPLAY and taking time out of their schedules to join this cause.

There is so much at stake. The physical consequences our younger generation is experiencing due to obesity is putting their lives at risk. The increased costs of healthcare directly related to childhood obesity continues to burden our growing health care crisis. The Childhood Obesity epidemic affects everyone in America. We believe that ‘nPLAY can raise funds that can be spent on proven activity curriculum based programs and collect the data that details the effectiveness of those programs.

We hope you will support ‘nPLAY by joining this movement.

Help make a difference in creating a healthy America.

'nPLAY Foundation- livestreaming video powered by Livestream

2009-11-18T09:27:00.000-08:00

'nPLAY Foundation- livestreaming video powered by Livestream

Teaming up to Fight Child Obesity by Chris Lineberry

2009-11-18T07:54:00.000-08:00

Posted November 9, 2009 on www.weplay.com

As parents, we are collectively raising the first generation of children in over 100 years that may not outlive their parents. This potential decrease in lifespan is directly related to the epidemic of obesity in our children. This statistic, coupled with extensive related research on the topic, has led many schools and school districts to begin to address the issue of childhood obesity. The pressures of No Child Left Behind, coupled with local and state standards leaves many educators asking, “Why should schools address this issue?"

In 2001, No Child Left Behind was signed into law, mandating that all children perform on grade level. According to No Child Left Behind, by 2014 all children in America will pass mandated, standardized tests at the end of every school year. Failure to do so may result in the government taking those schools over, firing administration, or in some cases, closing schools. With this push to assess and mandate student achievement, many schools have dropped Physical Education, the Fine Arts, and other electives, favoring math and reading instruction for low achieving students in order to promote higher levels of performance on state standardized tests. Although the goal of educators to limit these choices in favor of math and reading is well-intended, research has demonstrated that the contrary may very well be true. A 2009 study done in Texas involving 2.44 million students determined a direct relationship between cardiovascular fitness and student achievement. In other words, the better the cardiovascular condition, the higher the test scores.

The question has then become, how do we add recess or PE time without adding time to the school day or taking away from core subject areas? We do this by advocating for the education of the whole child, by incorporating health and wellness into the general curriculum, through strong instructional leadership in our schools, and by advocating for mandatory Physical Education and the fine arts in our schools. In my school here in Arizona, my students all are physically active for a minimum of 45 minutes every school day. We do 15 minutes of walking, 15 minutes of calisthenics, and 15 minutes of free play everyday. My staff walks and exercises with our students every day. Additionally, my students participate in a Physical Education curriculum with a certified PE teacher at least one time per week.

I am proud to say that our levels of academic achievement and performance are higher than they have ever been in our school’s four year history. We have been able to do this because as a staff we believe that educating the whole child is important, that if we get kids up and get them moving we will see higher levels of academic performance, improved health, and enhanced learning. We do this because we believe we must educate the whole child.

Many organizations have stepped up in recent years to help schools address this issue. I would like to share with you the creation of one such organization that incorporates the starpower and passion of many of our country’s most prominent athletes to advocate for the reversal of childhood obesity. The organization is called ‘nPLAY. ‘nPLAY is a movement of professional athletes to unite the sports world to reverse the trend of childhood obesity. Many of you may have heard of our Chairman of the Board, Paul “The Truth” Pierce of the 2008 NBA World Champion Boston Celtics! Mr. Pierce believes that this is an important issue and has committed his efforts to this movement.

Mr. Pierce is not alone in this endeavor; in fact, he has successfully started uniting his fellow professional athletes. Both Jennie Finch and Summer Sanders, athletes associated with weplay.com, have joined Mr. Pierce in this fight and have assumed active roles in ‘nPLAY. Additionally, Grant Hill of the Phoenix Suns, boxing legend Evander Holyfield, basketball greats Jerry Stackhouse and Kenny Anderson, as well as Olympic gold medalists Nastia Liukin and Cullen Jones are also valuable forces in the ‘nPLAY organization.

The mission of ‘nPLAY is to ensure that all children have the opportunity to stay healthy and fit while having fun. ‘nPLAY’s primary focus will be to fund effective, curriculum and activity-based programs that will address the issue of childhood obesity in schools and community centers. ‘nPLAY will also launch an extensive media campaign, encouraging children and parents to get moving and stay active. In order to support schools, ‘nPLAY has also partnered with the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE). Through this partnership, ‘nPLAY will support and aggressively advocate for 150 minutes per week of physical activity for elementary school students and 225 minutes per week for high school students. These great athletes have joined forces to help raise awareness, improve the health and wellness of children, and reverse this epidemic. For those of you interested in joining Paul, Jennie, Summer and the rest of these all stars your chance is here. The ‘nPLAY site is up and functional at www.nplayfoundation.org. Take a look and see how you can get involved.

Chris has been an educator since graduating from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 1994. Chris has taught high school English, Sports Medicine, and Physical Education. In addition to teaching, Chris has coached swimming and worked as an athletic trainer on both the high school and college level. Currently, Chris is the principal of Jack W. Harmon Elementary School in Queen Creek, Arizona where he and his staff are working together to improve the lives of children, academically, physically, and emotionally. Chris lives in Queen Creek with his wife, son, and two step-daughters.

A Message From Paul Pierce Chairman of 'nPLAY

2009-11-18T07:46:00.000-08:00

Go to http://www.livestream.com/nplayfoundation to view a Message from Paul Pierce and other videos of 'nPLAY athletes

'nPLAY Website is up go to www.nplayfoundation.org

2009-11-18T07:25:00.000-08:00

Paul Pierce and a core group of professional athletes, both active and retired representing a variety of sports, have banded together to mobilize a movement that tackles the epidemic of childhood obesity in America. The goal is to bring about change – in thinking, in attitude, and in lifestyle. These professional athletes have never united before for a common cause in any capacity. This core group has developed ‘nPLAY, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) foundation. With the credibility and connections necessary to influence culture and bring about the needed changes to successfully reverse the childhood obesity epidemic, ‘nPLAY is aggressively reaching out and cementing these relationships with innovative, successful leaders and with the professional sports world to rally the movement.

Help make a difference in creating a healthy America.

Mission:

To provide every child with the opportunity to stay healthy and fit while having fun.